I got one pair off of Amazon.com and then another pair from TJ Maxx in their little travel accessories section.

They’re a lot like normal ear plugs but kind of flared on the outside.

It’s key to wear them during take-off and landing, but I wear them the whole flight. I don’t want to take any chances.

I’ve even worn them during a migraine when I was home one time and they seemed to help somehow.

Neck pillow

That probably seems obvious, but it works.

Again, wear it during take-off and landing, but I wear mine the whole trip.

Yes, this makes some things kind of awkward.

For instance, I like to read sci-fi or social commentary graphic novels on planes (since I can’t listen to earbuds with my ear plugs in) so to utilize the neck pillow properly I have to hold the big floppy book right up in front of my face at eye level.

It’s a small price to pay to not die in agony thousands of feet in the air or be rushed to a hospital immediately upon landing.

Sit near the front of the plane

Ya know, I don’t really know why this matters, but trust me when I say it makes all of the difference in the world.

If you’re booking your flight last minute, your best bet for getting a seat near the front of the plane is always going to be a first-class or “comfort” class ticket.

Alternatively, you can notify the flight staff at least an hour ahead of departure about your disability and they will make arrangements for you. Therefore, if you buy a coach ticket and there are no seats in front of the wing, you still have a shot.

One of the biggest travel mistakes I’ve made is carrying a huge, over-packed, overweight weekender bag around Atlanta’s huge ass airport, then trying to sling it up into the overhead bin without help.

First of all, I don’t recommend anyone carry any heavy bags.

Now, I always pack a rolling bag, instead.

The other thing is that you shouldn’t lift a heavy bag into the over-head bin by yourself. I know it’s hard to ask for help, especially when you look able-bodied, but you really should swallow your pride and do it.

Neck and back injuries are common and virtually undetectable to the eye of a bystander, so it’s unlikely anyone will give you a hard time.

If they do give the side-eye, all you can do is have empathy for their lack of enlightenment (or say “F you” in your head… your choice).

Stay hydrated

That can come in many forms.

Making sure you’re well hydrated the day before by drinking lots of mineralized water, and not drinking in flight are both good ideas.

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Welcome!

My name is Elizabeth Abney Clark, or you may know me as Experimental Betty.
I am a self-healing expert, published scientific author, and founder of the Self-Healers for Life learning platform. On my blog, I share biohacking tips, recipes, new research, plus my personal journey from being sick, tired, and seriously struggling to feeling amazing every single day.